Development of the Empires system has not really started as yet. So it is not decided how many tokens will be involved as yet. Dragon Tombs plus many smaller updates will be completed first, before the Empires protection system is developed.

ATM, you cannot claim land with tokens. However, in preparation for future Empires protection, you can establish your base on record, and have political control over the area until Empires protection is released. The link below explains the requirements and how to do this.